4 Future Event Planning Industry Trends You Need to Know About

Whether your event planning business helps couples bring their dream wedding to life, creates buzzworthy events for startup tech companies, or just helps people to celebrate any occasion in style, you know that to stay on top, you always have to stay a step ahead.

That’s why there’s no time like the present to start examing the top future event planning trends.

In this post, we’ll tell you why things like facial recognition software, augmented reality, and even chatbots are changing the face of the events industry.

If you want to keep the enviable reputation you’ve worked so hard to earn as an event planner, then you need to read on.

1. Upgrading Entrance Security

Especially if your work in the events industry revolves mainly around weddings, high-profile corporate events, or private parties with some seriously famous VIPs, today’s consumer expects you to go above and beyond with security.

In other words?

The typical bouncer at the door, checking off names on a paper guestlist is a thing of the past.

Of course, VIP guests especially may not appreciate being asked to pull out their IDs to prove who they are – and this can also slow up the entrance process.

Not only does this make everyone feel more secure, but it also takes a lot of liability off of your event planning company. Plus, this technology makes tagging people in photos on social media after the party (with their consent, of course) much easier.

Especially with gun violence continually on the rise, knowing that you have a solid plan and security in place will help everyone relax and be able to enjoy the event.

2. Augmented Reality Games as Entertainment

Next up on our list of the hottest future event planning trends?

Upgrading the traditional party games through the use of augmented reality. Augmented reality is a much better fit than virtual reality for events because it doesn’t require guests to strap on fancy goggles and completely remove themselves from the environment of the party.

Instead, augmented reality builds upon the wonderful event space and decor that your event planning business has already created.

Augmented reality can help partygoers to learn more about the nutritional content of the food you’re serving, allows guests to go on virtual scavenger hunts, provides information about guest speakers and hosts, and of course, provide guests with unlimited fun photo filters – which will only encourage them more to upload photos from the night to social media.

It can also allow guests to play games built around a specific theme.

Another huge benefit of augmented reality when it comes to the event planning industry itself, and not just party guests?

You can use augmented reality to help you gain more sponsorships, get better deals with vendors, and to pad your income.

For example, those photo filters we mentioned earlier? Reach out to the companies you work with – or companies you know would pay big for exposure to the right people – and ask them to create a branded filter for guests to use.

3. Food Must Be Instagram-Worthy

Future event planning will also continue the current trend of creating “Instagrammable moments” and envy-inducing experiences that highlight an event’s exclusivity.

Now, it’s time to think beyond over-the-top table settings and out-of-the-box floral arrangements. Even getting creative with the event spaces and venues you’re able to find is something that consumers expect today.

So, what’s the next big thing when it comes to Instagrammable moments?

The food itself – along with the way you arrange it. Don’t be afraid to try non-traditional silverware, all things deconstructed, and creative serving plates like cutting boards or even humans themselves!

As an event planner, you’ll now need to start seeing every guest as a potential foodie (even if some of them are more like amateurs.).

Getting the latest trendy food at your event, working with well-known chefs, or even catering food from the coolest restaurants will all go a long way towards impressing guests.

4. Use Chatbots

Finally, the event planning industry outlook strongly reflects a desire for convenience – and even discretion.

That’s why chatbots and digital information kiosks are a perhaps unexpected, but increasingly vital, aspect of the event planning world.

These chatbots can help give guests information about where specific meetings are held, where the restrooms are, provide indoor maps, and can even be used to direct guests to their specific tables.

They’re also a great way to get guests involved with learning more about the charity or company that is sponsoring the event itself. Attendees can even use these kiosks to order their food and drinks, meaning no more time wasted in long lines at the bar or buffet!

Future-Proof Your Event Planning Business with These Tips

Whether you’re ready to make augmented reality experiences and chatbots a part of your regular event planning offerings, or if you want to consistently come up with ways to keep guests feeling as secure as possible, the trends on this list tell you exactly how to make it happen.

The trick here is to start implementing these things before your competitors do.

After all, you want to establish your event planning company as an innovator and leader – not a follower.

Looking for more tips on how to take any party to the next level? Need to offer hosts tips on creating the right guest list? Want decor advice, menu ideas, and the latest news on popular event spaces in the New York or San Francisco area?